Willi Castro joins Puerto Rico for his first World Baseball Classic
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For the second time this week, Team Puerto Rico has added an MLB All-Star to its World Baseball Classic roster.
Rockies utility man Willi Castro is the newest member of the squad, which was announced on Tuesday. Castro, who made the 2024 Midsummer Classic as a member of the Twins, will be competing in the WBC for the first time.
The 29-year-old signed a two-year contract with Colorado on Thursday following a down 2025 big league season split between the Twins and Cubs. The switch-hitter batted .226 with 11 home runs and a .679 OPS in 120 games. He also saw playing time at every position on the diamond except catcher and first base.
Castro’s inclusion follows Monday’s news that eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado will suit up for Team Puerto Rico. Mets superstar Francisco Lindor will serve as the team captain.
Team Puerto Rico will begin its WBC run on March 6 vs. Colombia. Puerto Rico will host first-round action for Pool A in San Juan at Hiram Bithorn Stadium. Pool A also includes Cuba, Canada and Panama.